Red Cross of Idaho encourages donations, volunteering in celebration of Red Cross Month
The Idaho Foodbank’s Idaho Kind fundraising and awareness campaign wraps up at the end of March. Have you volunteered at a local organization, offered to walk your neighbor’s dog or paid for a stranger’s coffee at a Boise drive-thru yet?
Well, there’s still time to engage in that random act of kindness, which is not just limited to The Idaho Foodbank — although giving money to help food-needy Idahoans is always important and appreciated.
Another impactful gesture would be to honor the mission of the American Red Cross and make a donation or volunteer in celebration of Red Cross Month (March).
Last year, “Idaho Red Cross helped 770 people following disasters like home fires or wildfires by addressing their most immediate needs including food, shelter and emotional support,” according to a news release. The organization also held 2,200 blood drives, collecting 63,500 units of lifesaving blood.
To support the work of your community heroes, join others for Red Cross Month and make a financial gift, give blood or volunteer by visiting redcross.org. Feel free to even donate specifically during the Red Cross Giving Day campaign on Thursday, March 23, at redcross.org/givingday.
The American Red Cross faced severe blood shortages throughout the pandemic. Even though COVID-19 cases are declining, the blood supply remains vulnerable, “especially as doctors begin to resume elective surgeries previously delayed by Omicron,” according to a news release.
So for those who choose to roll up their sleeve and give during the month of March, a $10 e-gift card will be given as a thank-you. In addition, all March donors will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the 2022 MLB All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Schedule an appointment to give blood by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
This story was originally published March 22, 2022 at 5:00 AM.